Vidic played the full 90 minutes of United’s game against AIK in Stockholm and declared himself satisfied with his fitness levels as he battles to overcome a persistent back problem that forced him to sit out the club’s tour of the Far East and Australia last month.

While the absence of Wayne Rooney dominated the build-up to the prestige friendly in Sweden, Vidic’s successful return was the most positive news after as the game ended in a 1-1 draw, with substitute Angelo Henriquez equalising for the Red Devils in the second half.

“I am pleased that I have 90 minutes under my belt,” Vidic told MUTV.

“It’s a long time since I’ve played a full game. I am pleased with that and I hope that after this game I can pick up my fitness and I will be ready for the beginning of the season.

“It’s frustrating when you don’t get the games. I’ve done some good training but it’s different when you’re playing a match. I got 90 minutes tonight and we have two more games before the start of the league season. Hopefully I can get another 90 minutes before then.”

Vidic admitted United needed to improve after an indifferent run of results in their pre-season fixtures, but he complimented AIK on their spirited performance at the Friends Arena.

“AIK worked very hard and they made some trouble for us,” added the Serbian centre-back. “We allowed them too many chances and we have to improve our shape in defence. We can work on that and I think we will be fine.”